Before deciding to get married, couples talk about everything from dating history to finances but often forget about sexual wellness and getting tested before getting intimate. Dr Ravi Teja Juloori, lab head, TRUSTlab Diagnostics, connected with us to share the importance of testing before a couple decides to take the next plunge in their relationship.
India’s struggle against HIV/AIDS and spreading awareness on the subject makes it crucial for couples with a sexual history to consider testing before getting intimate with their partners. “It shows responsibility and informed behaviour,” he added.
Dr Juloori said, “It is a proactive measure that not only protects individuals but also contributes to the broader public health goal of preventing the spread of the virus.”
If a person knows about the HIV status of their partner, it empowers them and helps them make an informed decision to stay with them. It also helps to manage the condition effectively as both partners are aware of what to expect.
Here are why testing is important for couples before getting married and intimate with each other,
Couples Planning A Family Can Make An Informed Choice
Many couples decide to start a family right after they tie the knot, and tests for HIV/AIDS (HIV Myths) allow them to take better measures and manage everything effectively in case one partner tests positive.
It opens the floodgates to explore options and ensure that the new life you bring to this planet is healthy. The test will also help to identify if one of the partners would carry genetic mutations that would be inherited by the offspring. In such cases, doctors also remain cautious and take every possible measure to ensure a healthy pregnancy, childbirth, and baby.
Getting Tested Before Marriage Helps To Build A Stronger Bond
Dr Juloori said that when a couple takes the initiative to get tested, they showcase responsibility towards their partner and relationship. It facilitates the room for open communication and trust building.
Knowing the test results, partners can share commitments to each other’s health and ensure a healthy lifestyle for overall well-being. The expert said that many testing centres have counsellors who can help couples understand the situation better and answer multiple queries without judgements and inhibitions.
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Frequency Of Testing For HIV/AIDS
How often should you get tested? Answering this common question people ask, Dr Juloori said that the frequency of testing depends upon sexual activities people indulge in.
The healthcare experts check for risk factors and changes in the relationship status. If someone has or had multiple sexual partners with whom they indulged in unprotected sex, they need frequent screening.
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The doctor said that it is not only HIV/AIDS testing but also individual circumstances that call for this responsible action. The examination will also reveal if your partner is suffering from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like gonorrhoea, syphilis, HPV, chlamydia, hepatitis B and C and herpes. These tests ensure a couple has a comprehensive history of the sexual health of their partners, and they take a holistic approach when it comes to ensuring their and their partner’s overall well-being.
Dr Juloori said that knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against HIV/AIDS and STIs. “Taking charge of one’s health through testing is a proactive step towards a safer and healthier future,” he concluded.